A Winter Wonderland of Food and Family Fun in Frankenmuth, MI

Frankenmuth, Michigan, known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” combines delicious food, family fun, and a touch of Bavarian culture for an unforgettable experience. Known for its German roots, Frankenmuth comes to life in winter with seasonal fun, cozy indoor escapes, exciting waterparks, and delicious food, creating a welcoming and exciting experience for all ages.

Zehnder’s Splash Village: A Winter Waterpark Wonderland

One of Frankenmuth’s main winter highlights is Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark, a 50,000-square-foot paradise of slides, pools, and play zones. For an unforgettable thrill, hop on the six-story family raft ride, twisting and turning all the way down. The Super Loop body slide adds even more excitement, perfect for adventure-seekers craving high-speed fun.

Younger visitors have their slice of paradise with a zero-entry activity pool, complete with water geysers, water basketball, and volleyball for endless play. For a slower pace, the Crooked Brook Creek Lazy River offers a scenic float that lets you unwind as you drift. And when you’re ready to fully relax, the Whimsical Whirl Hot Tub is the perfect place to soak and recharge.

Landlubber Entertainment: Fun Beyond the Water

Beyond the water, Zehnder’s has more in store with Landlubber Entertainment. The arcade, gift shop, and family-friendly dining spots like Elf Hollow Café and Mushroom Grille make this an entertainment hub. Families can gather in the main lobby for a cozy, complimentary movie night as the day winds down.

Bavarian Blast: Michigan’s Largest Indoor Waterpark 

The excitement doesn’t stop there. Frankenmuth welcomes Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark with the much-anticipated Bavarian Blast at the Bavarian Inn Lodge. Opening by early 2025, this $80 million expansion promises endless thrills and adventures for the whole family. The Bavarian Blast features 16 “Splash’tastic” new water slides designed for all ages, from gentle slides to heart-racing drops.

A large, rip-roaring wave pool brings the ocean’s excitement indoors while the “Not So Lazy River” twists and turns, adding a bit of extra splash to your day. The fun continues with Michigan’s first adult-only swim-up bar, offering a unique way to relax in between rides.

More Than Water Attractions at Bavarian Blast

The excitement goes beyond water attractions. The new Bavarian Blast expansion includes a state-of-the-art Laser Tag Arena, a three-story Ropes Course, and the Skyscraper Rock Climbing Wall. All perfect for giving thrill-seekers endless ways to challenge themselves. Rockin N’ Roll Mini Bowling adds a fun twist for families and friends, bringing a touch of friendly competition to their stay.

Frankenmuth Ice Rink: A Cozy Winter Escape

Winter in Frankenmuth extends beyond indoor water fun. Downtown at Zehnder Park, the Frankenmuth Ice Rink is open from November 20, 2024, to February 28, 2025. The fully chilled outdoor rink brings the joy of skating to life, welcoming all skill levels with no pre-registration required and skate rentals are available. Skaters can lace up and glide beneath the crisp winter air, surrounded by the town’s charming architecture and festive atmosphere, creating a memorable winter experience for families, couples, and friends.

The Frankenmuth Gnome Hunt: A Whimsical Adventure

The Frankenmuth Gnome Hunt adds a playful touch to the winter season and has quickly become a beloved activity. This free scavenger hunt invites visitors to explore town in search of gnomes hidden in various spots. With each gnome, you’ll discover unique Frankenmuth shops and landmarks, creating a fun way to see the sights.

Participants can pick up a guide at the Frankenmuth Visitor’s Center or access it digitally by scanning QR codes near each gnome. This lighthearted adventure is a favorite for families as they uncover Frankenmuth’s whimsical “gnomes” together.

Warm Up with Frankenmuth’s Hearty Cuisine

Frankenmuth’s winter fun goes hand-in-hand with hearty, comforting meals perfect for cold days. The town’s Bavarian roots shine through its culinary scene, especially at Zehnder’s and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Here, family-style chicken dinners are a long-standing favorite. Platters of crispy fried chicken with delicious sides offer a dining experience steeped in history and community warmth.

Global Flavors and American Classics

While German fare is a staple, Frankenmuth’s food scene offers flavors from around the world. Wang’s Bistro adds an Asian flair to Frankenmuth’s dining scene. Meanwhile, da Vinci’s Italian Restaurant serves favorites like fresh pasta and pizza. Poblano’s Mexican Grill & Cantina delivers flavorful Mexican dishes while Flavor Caribbean Cuisine adds an explosion of southern flavor. The Station 100 adds a European touch with a sophisticated menu in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

The town’s dedication to diverse dining doesn’t end there. For American favorites, N’Orlins Beignets & Coffee brings a taste of New Orleans to Michigan with its fresh beignets and savory gumbo. Slo’ Bones BBQ Smokehaus satisfies cravings for Southern-style barbecue with smoked ribs, pulled pork, and hearty sides. Various other restaurants across Frankenmuth offer beloved American classics, from burgers and pizza to comfort foods that make every meal feel like home.

Plan Your Winter Visit to Frankenmuth

Frankenmuth, Michigan, combines Bavarian culture, family fun, and diverse dining for unforgettable memories. Glide on the ice, find friendly gnomes, or savor global flavors—there’s endless enjoyment in this charming town. With exciting waterparks and cozy retreats, Frankenmuth’s winter wonderland is the perfect setting for memorable experiences. Start planning your adventure at www.frankenmuth.org.

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